Qing-Ming Gao, group leader for trait development, examines canola plants at a Cibus Inc. greenhouse in San Diego.

EU loosens rules for new genomic techniques

A recent decision by the European Parliament could open opportunities for crop development and international trade

Glacier FarmMedia – A European Parliament decision last month to adopt new rules for what it calls new genomic techniques (NGTs) is good news for agriculture and international trade, say […] Read more


Health Canada will likely regulate gene-edited crops the same as conventional plant breeding, which is praised by plant breeders but opposed by some groups.

Federal gene editing policy expected soon

Those opposing the technology have delayed policy development

Glacier FarmMedia – Health Canada is expected to soon publish guidance on how gene-edited crops will be regulated. It appears the department will treat gene-edited crops differently from genetically modified […] Read more

“Gene editing is the cherry on top of a sundae. It won’t replace traditional breeding.” Dr. Alison Van Eenennaam, Cooperative Extension Specialist in Animal Genomics & Biotechnology – University of California, Davis.

Genetic editing in livestock faces strong headwinds

University of California, Davis professor says lack of acceptance of gene editing stifles potential gains in livestock sector

Regulations on gene editing of animals are contributing to negative public perceptions of the technology and stifling innovation in the livestock sector, according to Alison Van Eenennaam of the University […] Read more

Some corn hybrids were among the first genetically modified crops to reach the market.

Some GM crops could hit market without review

Traits that could have been achieved through traditional breeding might not require approval

Reuters – The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced a rule that will simplify or waive agency reviews of certain biotech farm products, including plants and seeds that have been […] Read more



Canadian researchers could be at a disadvantage if gene edited crops and livestock are more quickly approved in other countries.

How will gene-editing reach the farm?

Biotech advocates say regulatory clarity is critical, but not available in Canada

Biotechnology experts and supporters from the agriculture and medical sectors met in Toronto recently to discuss how Canada’s regulatory system could better enable the safe commercialization of gene-edited plants and […] Read more

The Government of Canada believes gene edited crops can help farmers produce “safe and affordable food, feed, fibres, and energy in the 21st century.”

Canada joins group supporting gene editing

Twelve countries issued a joint statement in support of the plant breeding process

The federal government has come out in favour of gene editing. Or, more accurately, the Government of Canada believes gene edited crops can help farmers produce “safe and affordable food, […] Read more